1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH

1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH

standard60sUnited States

Born in 1962, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is a 883cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 55hp from Harley-Davidson.

Specifications

Engine

Type
OHV V-twin Ironhead
Displacement
883 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
55 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque
60.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
76.2 × 96.8 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
Tillotson carburetor

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel double loop
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Drum
Rear Brake
Drum
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
4-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
170 km/h (106 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
195 kg (430 lbs)
Wet Weight
215 kg (474 lbs)
Seat Height
750 mm
Wheelbase
1460 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
13.0 L

History & Story

The 1962 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH was introduced by Harley-Davidson as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in United States, it represented Harley-Davidson's vision for the twin-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1960s.

At the heart of the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH sits a 883cc OHV V-twin Ironhead engine producing 55 horsepower at 6800 rpm. The twin-cylinder powerplant features a twin-cylinder layout with air-cooled cooling, fed by Tillotson carburetor. Power reaches the rear wheel through a 4-speed transmission and chain final drive.

Weighing 195 kg (430 lbs) dry, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH uses a steel double loop frame, telescopic fork front suspension, and twin shock rear suspension. The braking system comprises drum front and drum rear units.

Performance-wise, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH achieves a claimed top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). With a fuel capacity of 13.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 750 mm makes it accessible for most riders.

Today, the 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is considered a desirable collector motorcycle that has appreciated significantly in value over the decades. Parts availability is rated as good, making ownership relatively straightforward. It remains an icon of Harley-Davidson motorcycling from 1960s.

Known Issues

  • Oil leaks considered normal on vintage models
  • Generator and voltage regulator issues
  • Primary chain tensioner adjustment

Fun Facts

  • The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Harley-Davidson
  • The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH was produced in Harley-Davidson's United States facilities
  • The 1962 Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH featured a steel double loop frame typical of 1960s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Good
Collector Rating
8/10

Resources & Parts